Germany, SS. A 3rd SS Panzer Division Totenkopf Signals Sturmmann M43 Service Tunic

(Waffen-SS Feldbluse M43 für einen Sturmmann der Nachrichtentruppe). A rare and very well-preserved Waffen-SS M43 service tunic issued to a Signals Sturmmann of the 3rd SS Panzer Division Totenkopf. Constructed of field-grey wool twill, the tunic features a turned down collar flanked on each side by tabs constructed of black wool with buckram cores. Each measuring 40 mm (w) x 60 mm (l), the right side insignia tab bears a machine-embroidered silver-grey Totenkopf, while the left side rank tab is overlaid by a single silver aluminum wire tresse bisected by a black threaded band. The shoulders are topped by straps constructed of black wool with a field-grey wool underlay trimmed with bright yellow piping, and bearing reverse integral straps perforated with reinforced buttonholes. Each measuring 45 mm (w) x 110 mm (l), the straps are secured in place with pebbled buttons on the inner edge and with loops at the outer edges. The cuff of each sleeve features a vertical slit with a single non-magnetic metal button meeting two reinforced buttonholes for an adjustable fit. Stitched onto the upper left arm is an insignia consisting of a black rayon backer bearing a machine-embroidered, silver-grey, SS-style German national eagle clutching a wreathed mobile swastika, measuring 90 mm (w) x 40 mm (h) overall. Directly below the eagle, the sleeve also bears a Sturmmann rank insignia in the form of a triangular black wool backer bearing a single silver-grey embroidered tresse, measuring 100 mm (w) x 90 mm (h). Four non-pleated pockets are set into the breast flaps, all closing with horizontal flaps perforated with reinforced buttonholes, in turn meeting pebbled magnetic metal buttons. Two threaded loops are set into the upper left pocket for the accommodation of a badge with a vertical pinback. The tunic closes with six pebbled magnetic metal buttons on the right flap meeting an equal number of reinforced buttonholes on the left side. Completing the exterior features are two sets of three reinforced eyelets set into the waistband through which are fitted belt hooks. A multi-piece black rayon interior liner is set into the breast flaps, with the right side bearing the illegible remnants of size dimensions. Otherwise unmarked, the tunic measures approximately 45 cm across the shoulders, with an arm length of 60 cm, and an overall body length of 77 cm. Moderate material fatigue is visible to the exterior wool, consistent with wartime usage, with some additional soiling to the base material. A scarce tunic in overall better than very fine condition.